Set To Open Monday, Dearborn Center Fitness Area On Hold

DEARBORN, MI — The opening of the fitness area of the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center is on hold due to legal action at the state level, Dearborn officials announced Thursday.

A court has temporarily halted the opening of all gyms across Michigan, per the request of Gov. Whitmer, who believes it is not prudent to allow gyms to operate until the spread of the coronavirus is under control. Further legal action is expected before the issue is resolved.

The Center had announced on June 23 that it would reopen the fitness area in a modified configuration and with safety protocols in place on June 29.

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Meanwhile, the neighborhood pool at Ten Eyck Park opened on Wednesday. The new outdoor pool at Ford Woods Park is expected to open soon, with the expectation it will be operating no later than early July.

The three free splash pads at Crowley, Hemlock and Whitmore–Bolles parks opened June 20, and Camp Dearborn opened on June 21 with modified camping and limited services.

In city parks, basketball courts, playgrounds, tennis courts, picnic shelters and comfort stations are now available. Walking paths never closed.

Related: Michigan Gyms Must Remain Closed: Appeals Court

Details for the anticipated opening of The Center

Once the fitness area is allowed to reopen at The Center, its hours are expected to 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Masks will be required to enter and exit The Center and on the walking track above the gym, as well as in all public areas. Social distancing will be required.

The Center has been professionally sanitized. The fitness area will be cleaned periodically throughout the day. Patrons will be advised to wipe off their machines and weights before and after each use. Hand sanitizer will be available. Gloves are encouraged.

To accommodate social distancing, group exercise classes will be held in the Ballroom, spinning classes will be in Studio A, and a large number of pieces of cardio equipment have been moved into the gym.

Remaining closed are the climbing wall, swimming pool, locker rooms, the theater, and conference rooms. The gym is not available for basketball.

The lobby restrooms across from the Service Desk will be open.

Members of The Center will be notified regarding adjustments of their fees.

Residents who are not members will be allowed to pay a daily entry fee to use the fitness area of The Center.